Rationalities of goodwill: On the promotion of philanthropy through sports-based interventions in Sweden

This article by Ekholm & Dahlstedt analyzes Swedish sports-based interventions, such as Midnight Football, to understand the underlying "goodwill rationalities." It reveals how sport is positioned as a civic remedy, yet may inadvertently reinforce assimilation norms. The study highlights the dual role of public–private partnerships in promoting social inclusion, while also urging critical reflection on sport's broader function in policymaking and philanthropy. It emphasizes the political potential of such provisions as a means of promoting social change, guided by specific notions of a "good society" and "good citizen," often animating contributions as non-political acts of goodwill.

Foundations of Radical Philanthropy

This article examines "radical philanthropy," arguing it offers an alternative to "philanthro-capitalism," which often masks structural inequalities. It engages with a radical theory of poverty, elucidates key principles of radical philanthropy, and highlights its potential as a distinct approach. While traditional philanthropy is often criticized as insufficient or serving capital interests, radical philanthropy seeks to transcend and provide alternatives to the status quo by addressing root causes of inequality. The authors suggest that although individual foundations may not embody all principles, collectively, radical philanthropies can contribute significantly to achieving a more equitable world.

Asian-Australian diaspora philanthropy

This report reviews the giving practices among Asian-Australians, recognizing the growing prominence of Asian diaspora communities in Australia’s social, business, and public life. It addresses the existing knowledge gap regarding how, why, where, and what causes Asian-Australian philanthropists support. The Lord Mayor's Charitable Foundation commissioned this study as a crucial first step towards understanding this demographic’s philanthropic nature. The goal is to identify and realize opportunities for Australia's mainstream philanthropy sector to engage more closely with Asian-Australian donors for mutual benefit and enhanced societal impact.

A Will in Search of a Way: Philanthropy in Education in Peru

This paper investigates emerging philanthropic and social investment models in Peru, an upper middle-income country where human development and education indices lag behind economic growth. With overseas development assistance shifting, local philanthropists aim to fill the social investment gap. Based on a survey of 157 philanthropic organizations in Peru’s largest cities, the study explores how strategic leveraging of philanthropic spending, relative to the public education budget, is critical for achieving impact at scale.

Plutocratic philanthropy

Saunders-Hastings investigates how elite philanthropy can entrench plutocratic influence. He contends such practices consolidate elite power and calls for public scrutiny to ensure democratic accountability. The article critically examines the potential for philanthropic endeavors by the wealthy to reinforce existing power structures, advocating for greater transparency and oversight to safeguard public interest and prevent undue influence on societal norms and policies.

Philanthropy: towards a better practice model

Gillies, York & Minkiewicz propose a best-practice model combining ethical stewardship, community-centred innovation, and outcome evaluation. They recommend embedding social justice, continually learning from grantees, and aligning grant-making with systemic change goals. The model aims to raise sector standards by promoting transparent, accountable, and impactful philanthropic practices that prioritize community needs and long-term societal benefit.

Plato and John Rawls on Social Justice

Bassey contrasts Platonic virtue ethics with Rawlsian principles of justice, proposing a synthesis that integrates duty-bound and egalitarian frameworks for modern policymaking rooted in ethical and fairness principles. The article explores how these two foundational philosophies can inform contemporary approaches to social justice, bridging ancient wisdom with modern political thought. It aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of justice that encompasses both individual moral responsibility and societal structures designed for equity. This comparative analysis offers valuable insights for policymakers seeking to create more just and fair societies.

Philanthropy with Chinese Characteristics: The potential of giving as a political and financial agent for social change

Rathjen investigates how Chinese philanthropy operates within political constraints, highlighting cross-sector coordination among state, corporate, and social actors. Drawing on field data, she argues that giving in China can be a pragmatic tool for social change, with implications for governance and financial flows. The study illuminates the unique dynamics of philanthropy in a state-controlled environment, showcasing its capacity to navigate political landscapes while still driving social impact. It also considers how these interactions shape the overall landscape of social change initiatives in China.

Philanthropy and community engagement

Giloth explores how philanthropy can effectively foster community engagement, presenting models of funder-community partnerships that build trust, encourage shared leadership, and facilitate responsive programming. The article underscores the significant role of philanthropic strategies in empowering marginalized groups and enhancing broader civic participation. It emphasizes approaches that are community-driven and inclusive, promoting sustainable local development.

Philanthropy for Impact – West Bengal

This research paper is part of a series designed to be a valuable tool and dialogue enabler for various stakeholders in the social sector, including social entrepreneurs, practitioners, funders, policymakers, and government entities. It compiles the current landscape of trends, gaps, opportunities, best practices, and recommendations related to state development profiles and key themes like gender and livelihoods. Each paper in the series aims to serve as a ready reference, fostering more informed collaborations, funding decisions, and implementation strategies.
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